Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has made a stunning declaration immediately after his side whipping of Sporting Gijon 6-1 at Camp Nou, that he would leave the Catalan side toward the end of the present campaign.

The ex-Spanish player assumed the responsibility of the club in 2014 and drove them to win the Champions League, La Liga, Copa Dey Rey and World Club Trophy all in a surprising first season battle. He has experienced harsh criticism as of late, particularly with his side shambolic show a fortnight back against Paris Saint-Germain.

Luis Enrique who has been continually scrutinised this season about whether he would commit to the club beyond the campaign but has dependably declined to react.

On Wednesday, he declared his decision amid his postmatch news conference after his side’s 6-1 win against Sporting Gijon.

“In preseason I had a meeting with [club directors Albert] Soler and Robert [Fernandez], during which I spoke about the possibility of not renewing.

They told me there was no rush to take the decision. That moment has arrived. I’m announcing it. The reason is I live my work looking for solutions and it gives me a little time to rest.

“I won’t be at Barcelona next season,” said Luis Enrique in his post-match press conference. “I need to rest. I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me. It’s been three unforgettable years. It’s a very difficult decision for me, one I’ve thought about a lot, but I think I need to be true to myself and fair to my way of thinking.

“I’d like to thank the club for the confidence they’ve shown in me over my time. They gave me the chance to coach the B team, I did that, and these three years have been unforgettable. I thank the club for all the support and professionalism and I’m not forgetting there are still three incredible months to go.”

“But with the help of everyone — and if the stars align — we can turn things around [against Paris Saint-Germain on March 8].